Cleveland's Bold New Apartment Complex: How J-Roc Development is Redefining Urban Living with Innovative Design

J-Roc Development is making waves in Cleveland's real estate scene once again. As their Shoreway Tower rises at the north end of West 78th Street, they're already unveiling plans for their next ambitious project: the Battery Park Apartments in the Gordon Square neighborhood.

A Design That Sparks Conversation

This apartment complex is planned for the southeast corner of West 73rd Street and Battery Park Boulevard. The project is scheduled for review by the City Planning Commission, where schematic plans will be presented for approval.

This view shows the proposed development looking south (EAO)

J-Roc is known for "modern architecture and forward-thinking urban design" according to their company profile. Their latest project is no exception, featuring irregular, multi-angular structures that are certain to generate discussion among architecture enthusiasts and community members alike.

Project Details and Design Philosophy

The development will contain 82 apartments across 1.1 acres that J-Roc acquired for $660,000. The property's irregular shape requires a creative approach, with a smaller building at West 70th Street and Battery Park containing six additional apartments and bike storage.

Site plan showing the proposed layout with West 73rd Street at left and West 70th Street at right

Designer Evident Architecture Office (EAO) of Portland, OR, who also worked on J-Roc's previous projects including Shoreway Tower, The Driftwood Apartments, and Electric Gardens, explains their design intent:

"Create a hybrid typology that blends the economy of walk-up units with the ability to foster a strong tenant community typically only found in larger multi-family projects."

Community-Focused Features

One of the most innovative aspects of the design is the inclusion of "communal porches" with seating areas that connect the two main structures along West 73rd. These connections will be above driveway and parking areas, creating a more cohesive multifamily development.

View showing both connective structures containing communal porches above parking courtyards

EAO emphasizes that "stronger communities are formed where informal gathering spaces are interspersed along daily circulation routes." Most units will feature balconies, and the design aims to "create high-quality units that have ample access to fresh air and sunlight by weaving the landscaping through the individual structures."

Practical Considerations

The development will include 76 parking spaces in interior courtyards, plus a central, dedicated bike room. The parking courts will also serve as part of the site's stormwater management system, with drainage and retention below the parking areas. These areas will be gated for residents only, with existing on-street parking available for visitors.

A perspective from one of the communal porches connecting the residential buildings

Historical Context and Neighborhood Impact

This site has been vacant since 2019 when the city acquired part of it to extend Battery Park Boulevard. The land was previously owned by an affiliate of Marous Development Group, who led the original Battery Park redevelopment of a former Eveready Battery plant more than 20 years ago.

The project represents continued investment in the Gordon Square neighborhood, following other developments like The Station 73 apartments by Columbus developer Avenue Partners. South of J-Roc's property along West 73rd, another vacant property has been on the market for 17 months without successful development.

As J-Roc continues to push architectural boundaries with their forward-thinking designs, the Battery Park Apartments project demonstrates how innovative urban planning can create both functional living spaces and stronger community connections.